Use a multi-faceted approach to reduce stress and worry. Stress drains us physically, so quality rest, exercise and nourishment are important. There are many good web sites that elaborate on this. However, the faith aspect is often missed.

For the Christian, Jesus said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 â€‹

Coming to Jesus in faith, having our sins forgiven, and becoming his follower means living a moral life. This can release our burdens. Pride, sin, vice, and selfishness are sources of stress which we bring on ourselves. Unintentional sin is so ingrained that even the Apostle Paul realized he could not live up to his heart’s desire (Romans 7:18-25). But we need to keep trying.

One source of stress can be false views of God and salvation. God has a gracious plan that includes all. Jesus “tasted death for every man,” Hebrews 2:9. Our loving God will not torture his children. God knows the present is a time of stress. “Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 50:5) We need to anchor our faith by believing in  Christ’s future reign of joy. Read Psalm 72.

Faith is key to our relationship with God. He personally loves and cares for us when we fully commit our lives to Him. (John 16:27.) 1 Peter 5:7 (Phillips translation), “You can throw the whole weight of your anxieties upon him, for you are his personal concern.” Psalm 55:22, “Cast thy burden upon the Lord and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” Psalm 55:22.

God has the perspective of eternity. Our present, short-term difficulties are developing our faith, humility, patience, sympathy, and compassion.  We could not develop these without challenging experiences. There are always lessons to learn.

We can also get encouragement from the examples in the Old Testament. Familiarize yourself with the stories of Joseph, Moses, Ruth, Esther, David, Hezekiah and many others. Imagine yourself in their places and learn how God helped them. All God’s people have hardships.

Stay close to the Lord and let Him guide you. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.  Do not be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil.” Proverbs 3:5-7